If you’re the proud owner of a Ford Puma, it’s time to pay close attention—especially if you value your safety and peace of mind.

Ford Australia has issued a recall for more than 5,000 of its popular (but now discontinued) SUVs due to a potentially serious fire risk.

Here at Seniors Discount Club, we know many of our members rely on their vehicles for everything from the weekly shop to grandkid pick-ups, so let’s break down what’s happening, what you need to do, and why it matters.

According to Ford’s official recall notice, a manufacturing defect means the fuel line sleeve in affected Pumas may rub (or 'chafe') against a support bracket.

Over time, this friction can damage the sleeve. If the sleeve becomes compromised, fuel could leak from the line.


And as we all know, leaking fuel and hot engines are not a good mix—if there’s an external ignition source, it could result in a vehicle fire.

But that’s not all. Even if a fire doesn’t break out, a fuel leak could cause your car to lose power while you’re driving.

Imagine suddenly losing motive power on a busy road or at a roundabout—definitely not a situation anyone wants to find themselves in.


This recall affects more than 5,000 Ford Puma vehicles sold in Australia.

The Puma, a compact SUV that’s been a favourite for its zippy handling and stylish looks, was discontinued recently, but many are still on the road.

If you bought a Puma new or second-hand in the last few years, it’s worth checking if your vehicle is on the recall list.

Ford Australia is contacting owners directly about a recall, but you can also check if your vehicle is affected by entering your VIN on their website or calling 133 673.

If your car is listed, book a free inspection and repair at your nearest Ford dealership.

The fix includes checking the fuel line sleeve and replacing it if needed, all at no cost.

Even if your car appears to be running normally, don’t ignore the recall—fuel leaks can develop over time, and it’s not a risk worth taking.

You might be wondering why we seem to hear about car recalls so often these days.

The truth is, as cars become more complex and manufacturers strive to meet strict safety and emissions standards, even small defects can have big consequences.

The good news is that recalls are a sign that the system is working—manufacturers are taking responsibility and fixing problems before they cause harm.

If you’re concerned about driving your Puma before it’s been checked, contact your local Ford dealer for advice.

In some cases, they may recommend limiting your driving or even arranging for your car to be towed to the dealership for repairs.

While car fires are rare, it’s always good to be prepared. If you ever smell petrol or see smoke while driving, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and get everyone out of the car as quickly as possible.

Move well away from the vehicle and call emergency services.

Never attempt to open the bonnet if you suspect a fire, as this can exacerbate the situation.

Stay safe out there, and happy motoring!
Have you owned a Ford Puma, or have you ever had to deal with a vehicle recall? How did the process go for you? Did you feel supported by the manufacturer? Share your experiences in the comments below.